About HCG Pregnyl
Chorionic gonadotropin is a drug whose actions are almost the same as those of luteinizing hormone (LH), which is produced by the pituitary gland. It is a hormone also normally produced by the placenta in pregnancy. Chorionic gonadotropin has different uses for females and males.
In females, chorionic gonadotropin is used to help conception occur. It is usually given in combination with other drugs such as menotropins and urofollitropin. Many women being treated with these drugs usually have already tried clomiphene alone (e.g., Serophene) and have not been able to conceive yet. Chorionic gonadotropin is also used in fertilization (IVF) programs.
In males, LH and chorionic gonadotropin stimulate the testes to produce male hormones such as testosterone. Testosterone causes the enlargement of the penis and testes and the growth of pubic and underarm hair. It also increases the production of sperm.
Although chorionic gonadotropin has been prescribed to help some patients lose weight, it should never be used this way. When used improperly, chorionic gonadotropin can cause serious problems.
Usage and Dosing
The dose of chorionic gonadotropin will be different for different patients. The following information includes only the average doses for chorionic gonadotropin. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.
The number of doses you receive each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you receive the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are receiving chorionic gonadotropin .
- For injection dosage form:
- For treating men with problems related to low levels of male hormones:
- Adults—1000 to 4000 Units injected into the muscle two to three times a week. You may need to receive this medicine for several weeks, months, or longer. If you are being treated for a low sperm count and have been on this medicine for six months, your doctor may give you another hormone medicine (menotropin or urofollitropin injection). You may need to receive both of these medicines together for up to twelve more months.
- To help pregnancy occur in women:
- Adults—5000 to 10,000 Units injected into the muscle on a day chosen by your doctor. The dose and day will depend on your hormone levels and the other medicines that you have been using.
- For the treatment of cryptorchidism (condition where testes do not develop properly):
- Children—1000 to 5000 Units injected into the muscle two to three times a week for up to ten doses.
Side Effects of HCG Pregnyl
Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some other effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:
For females only
Bloating (mild); stomach or pelvic pain
Abdominal or stomach pain (severe); bloating (moderate to severe); decreased amount of urine; feeling of indigestion; nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea (continuing or severe); pelvic pain (severe); shortness of breath; swelling of feet or lower legs; weight gain (rapid)
For boys only
Acne; enlargement of penis and testes; growth of pubic hair; increase in height (rapid)
difficult or labored breathing; difficulty breathing; flushing of skin; hives or welts; itching of skin; large, hive-like swelling on face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, sex organs; pain in chest, groin, or legs, especially the calves; redness of skin; severe, sudden headache; skin rash; slurred speech; sudden loss of coordination; sudden, severe weakness or numbness in arm or leg; sudden, unexplained shortness of breath; tightness in chest; unusually warm skin; vision changes; wheezing
Other side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. However, check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome:
Discouragement; enlargement of breasts; feeling sad or empty; headache; irritability; lack of appetite; loss of interest or pleasure; pain at place of injection; trouble concentrating; trouble sleeping; tiredness
After you stop receiving this medicine, it may continue to cause some side effects which require medical attention. During this period of time check with your doctor if you notice any of the following side effects:
For females only
Abdominal or stomach pain (severe); bloating (moderate to severe); decreased amount of urine; feeling of indigestion; nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea (continuing or severe); pelvic pain (severe); shortness of breath; weight gain (rapid)
Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your doctor.
Alternative names
Chorex, Novarel, Pregnyl, Profasi, Profasi HP
